A gritty but warm account of life on a council estate, Conrad Murray's debut solo performance DenMarked is one to watch.

The hip hop theatre show was written by London-born Murray and developed with Battersea Arts Centre.

His autobiographical performance was shared with an intimate audience at Folkestone's Quarterhouse last night, exploring how we are marked by events.

With tales of his dodgy friends, first arrest, childhood memories, violent dad and family problems, it's difficult not to get drawn into his story.

The impressive looped beatbox is worthy of a show on its own and that's before you even consider the complex guitar instrumentals, silky vocals and Shakespeare quotes.

His poetic monologue has an impressive undertone of both hiphop and Hamlet, with small bitesize tales broken up by simple lighting changes.

Despite numerous references to the classic Shakespearean play, Murray's DenMarked tells an inspiring tale of triumph over tragedy.

Separated into chapters, the show really finds its rhythm in "Julie", the chapter offering a beautifully innocent account of his savior social worker.

Murray's delivery feels like the untold confessions of thousands of British kids who drag themselves up with limited opportunity.

It offers a rare glance into the effectiveness of 'the system' and shares a disarmingly honest and affectionate memory of someone who tried to help.

Littered with dark humour, the performance visits stories of abuse, neglect, crime and racial tension.

But Murray tackles these tender topics with personable, vulnerable and gritty humour that has you laughing out loud.

Offstage, Murray is committed to helping young people find their voice and this show gives him unmistakable authority to do so.

It is an authentic tribute to hard work, strength of character and inspiring people.

DenMarked will be showing at the Battersea Arts Centre, in London, from Wednesday, February 22 to Saturday, March 11.